Calhoun County has four parks that offer different outdoor experiences.

Historic Bridge Park is the most urban park with picnic tables, a play area for children aged 5 to 12, a handicap accessible boat launch, restrooms, and short walking trails highlighted by refurbished historic bridges that have been reassembled in the park.

For inquires about renting the pavilion at Historic Bridige Park, call (269) 781-0784.

The Ott Biological Preserve has almost 300 acres of natural hiking trails and three lakes. The Preserve is home to several rare and endangered plant species and is a great opportunity to experience nature up close.

Kimball Pines has almost 100 acres of hiking opportunities in a rural setting with largely new growth of plants and trees. Several years ago the plantation pines that were the focus of this park were toppled due to straight line winds. Since that time the park is slowly being rebuilt to include the amenities it once had. The disc golf course is being reassembled and a restroom is now open.

The Calhoun County Trailway is a 5 1/2 mile non-motorized trailway that is suitable for walking and biking. The Trailway begins at the corner of E. Emmett St. and N. Raymond Rd., travels along the perimeters of Ott Biological Preserve and Kimball Pines Parks, and then ends at the north end of Historic Bridge Park. Due to its proximity to the other Calhoun County owned parks, it is possible to hike smaller portions of the Trailway by starting at several access points.

CALHOUN COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION

Calhoun County Parks and Recreation Commission are tasked with overseeing the parks that are owned by Calhoun County. The goal of the Commission is to provide a successful County Park System which results in the optimum use and acceptance of available open space and facilities by the greatest number of County residents.

The Commission is the governing body that addresses and makes recommendations for parks and recreation management. They meet on the first Thursday of each month at 4 pm. The public is always welcome to attend the meeting that is held in the Marshall location of the Calhoun County building at 315 W. Green St., Marshall in room 1-400.